Heads of Churches and Religious Organizations Express Their European Integration Position

“Our historical roots naturally determine Ukraine’s future – to be an independent state in the sphere of free European nations,” the heads of Ukrainian churches and religious organizations stated on September 30 in a special address to the Ukrainian people on Ukraine's European prospects, the Institute for Religious Freedom reports.

The document refers to the link between Ukraine and Europe, because it is through its spiritual, cultural, educational, and legal tradition that our public life was built.

Speaking about Ukraine's European choice, the religious leaders expressed the hope that the path forward “is not and cannot be considered as Ukraine’s opposition to our historic neighbor – Russia,” which also has close ties with Europe.

“We hope that the Russian people and the state will recognize and respect the right of Ukraine to be an independent state, to choose its own way to the future, just as Ukraine recognizes and respects the independence and sovereignty of the Russian Federation,” reads the a statement.

The religious leaders did not ignore the problems existing in the present united Europe.

In their opinion, “traditional religious, cultural, family, and moral values, which for centuries were the foundations of the life of the peoples of Europe, is a precious treasure that we should appreciate, protect, defend, and promote together.” Ukrainian churches and religious organizations are willing to join forces with Europe in this case.

The leaders of the churches and religious organizations urged believers “to pray that God will give wisdom to both rulers and to the people and help them to make the right choice.”